develop a profile on Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Justyify why it has been selected as a health priority area in Australia.

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Title: Profile on Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) as a Health Priority Area in Australia

Introduction:
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) refers to a class of diseases that involve the heart and blood vessels, including conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. In Australia, CVD has been identified as a significant health priority area due to its high prevalence, impact on quality of life, mortality rates, and economic burden. This profile will explain the reasons why it has been selected as a health priority area in Australia.

1. Prevalence and Impact:
CVD is one of the leading causes of illness and death in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2017), it is responsible for one in four deaths (27%) in the country. The prevalence of CVD is also widespread, with approximately 4.2 million Australians (18% of the population) being diagnosed with one or more cardiovascular conditions (Heart Foundation, 2021). This high prevalence demonstrates the significant burden CVD places on both individuals and the healthcare system.

2. Mortality Rates:
CVD-related deaths constitute a major concern in Australia. It is estimated that one Australian dies from CVD every 12 minutes (Heart Foundation, 2021). The impact is not limited to the elderly but affects individuals of all ages, including middle-aged adults and even young people. Addressing CVD as a priority area aims to reduce premature deaths and improve overall life expectancy.

3. Economic Burden:
CVD imposes a substantial economic burden on Australia's healthcare system. The costs associated with hospitalizations, medical treatments, and ongoing care for CVD-related conditions are substantial. In 2017-2018, CVD was estimated to cost the Australian economy approximately $5.2 billion (Heart Foundation, 2021). By prioritizing CVD, the government seeks to invest in preventive measures, early intervention, and management strategies that can alleviate the economic strain on the healthcare system.

4. Modifiable Risk Factors:
Another reason CVD has been selected as a priority area in Australia is its association with modifiable risk factors. Several lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, contribute to the development of CVD. By focusing on prevention and health promotion initiatives, including educational campaigns and policies in these areas, the aim is to reduce the prevalence of modifiable risk factors and, consequently, reduce the incidence of CVD.

5. Health Inequalities and Disparities:
CVD affects different population groups unequally, with certain communities experiencing higher rates of CVD and associated risk factors. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people living in rural and remote areas, and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are often disproportionately affected by CVD (Heart Foundation, 2021). Addressing CVD as a priority area aims to reduce these health inequalities and ensure equitable access to prevention, detection, and management services across all population groups.

Conclusion:
Cardiovascular Disease has been selected as a health priority area in Australia due to its high prevalence, impact on mortality rates, economic burden, association with modifiable risk factors, and presence of health inequalities. By prioritizing CVD, Australia aims to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular conditions, prevent premature deaths, improve overall life expectancy, and promote better health outcomes for all its citizens.